Please find attached a PDF version of my fall newsletter that will also be coming to all Cortes mailboxes as soon as the ferry runs and I can pick it up from the printer... which I thought was going to be yesterday... but alas...

Here are the headings and first few lines from each article found in the newsletter.

Yes, It’s True……I am pregnant. Peter and I are expectant parents (and if you have seen Peter you will know how totally thrilled he is!). I am due to give birth at the end of February and do intend to take a few months off-ish. (Read more...)

Cortes Zoning Bylaw ReviewJoin us Tuesday November 22nd, 2:30 pm, Gorge Hall for an intro overview where all feedback will be welcome. The opening line from the current bylaw reads; “It is the intention of the Cortes Island Zoning Bylaw to reflect in simple day-to-day rules, the character of the Cortes Official Community Plan, 1995 and in so doing, provide for a fair, spacious and comfortable life in a rural environment.” (Read more...)

Gas Tax $$ for Manson’s HallThe Regional District Board has agreed in principle to support a Gas Tax application from the Southern Cortes Community Association for $86,000, and we are awaiting the final staff report and contract before this becomes final. (Read more...)

$$ for Cortes Economic Action PlanI believe that big picture economic development thinking is key to the long-term well-being of the Cortes community and acknowledge that economic development planning is often the responsibility of local governments who are empowered with economic development services and officers to do this work. (Read more...)

Jocelyn & Ground Road TrailsThe Cortes Parks budget is totally tapped while we pay off the loan acquired to purchase the Whaletown Commons Park, so we... shifted our focus to two trials where less money is required and where more volunteer energy exists. We got licenses from the Ministry of Transportation to build trails both on Ground Road and the un-built portion of Jocelyn Road. (Read more...)

Sutil Point Park – Unethical or Wise to Sell a Park?Cortes has only one small, inactive park which is located on Sutil Road. I expect very few of you knew anything about. It is ˝ an acre in size and located immediately before the beginning of Smelt Bay Provincial Park as you head south on Sutil Road. (Read more...)

Union of BC Municipalities ConventionEvery year, mayors, municipal councilors, rural area directors, staff and others interested in local government gather from around the province to share experiences, network, listen to expert panels and pass resolutions. (Read more...)

Cortes Transportation StudyMany thanks to Bunt and Associates, Kate Maddigan and Max Thaysen for undertaking the Cortes Transportation Study. It has been years in the making. (Read more...)

Please do read the full newsletter either here or in your Cortes mailbox soon, and do join me for the first public meeting of the Cortes zoning bylaw review, Tuesday, November 22, 2:30 at the Gorge Hall.

Thanks for the opportunity to serve our community in this way. Stay warm and dry out there!